Stargazers Wanted!

In years past, many travelers used the night sky

By Ken Stewart

16 May 2011

In years past, many travelers used the night sky to navigate uncharted oceans and unclaimed lands. They looked into the deep, black sky filled with the stars of legend and the like. Orion, Leo, Pisces and Crux — all constellations standing upon centuries of lore. But most could not read their stories, making way for a special breed to spin their long tales — the stargazers.

Many would listen as a talented few told these stories spanning across time. The past and present were often fair game, but most curious of all was the futures they held. Proclaimed as heresy by some, and discounted by many more, these stargazers told stories lost on most. But a fortunate few heard the future whispered in the wind. By listening closely and seeing the unseen, a way was revealed as if from a dream.

These stargazers were often proven true, able to find their way when others were lost and steering weary travelers safely to shore.

Most travelers fix their sights upon the horizon, always fixated on the setting sun. But a fortunate few of us discover a latent gift; looking up into that deep, black sky, we pluck our choice of stars by hand. Carefully choosing each stitch, we weave our own constellation to throw back for all to see.